The Benue State Independent Electoral Commission (BSIEC) on Friday announced that elections would be conducted into the councils of 23 Local Government Areas of the state on July 6, 2023.
Dr. John Chen, the Chairman of BSIEC, disclosed this information at a stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi, the state capital, to unveil action plans and activities geared toward the exercise. He and his team were sworn in by Governor Hyacinth Alia on March 29, 2024.
Chen announced that elections would be held for council wards and chairs of local government councils, as well as the anticipated newly established council wards in the state.
He claimed that the action was taken in response to the governor’s indictment that the commission act swiftly to initiate the steps necessary to hold free, fair, and credible elections in the state.
“Today’s gathering marks a significant step towards fulfilling that promise. We are here to unveil the official election timetable and schedule of activities for the upcoming Local Government Council elections in Benue State. This comprehensive document outlines the critical milestones the BSIEC will undertake to ensure a free and fair electoral process.”
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“This commission will not organise voodoo or sham elections. We know the dangers of organising sham elections which only leads in the enthronement of mediocres’ and people of dubious acceptability into positions of leadership, ultimately leading to dismal governance.
“Alongside the election timetable, the BSIEC is proud to announce its intention for the creation of additional council wards within Benue State. This initiative is in recognition of the exponential growth in the demography, social, political and economic activities at that tier of Government. We believe that additional council wards will provide a more equitable representation at the grassroots level, thereby bringing governance and the dividends of democracy closer to the people.
“The success of any election hinges not only on the BSIEC’s efforts but also on the collective responsibility of all stakeholders. Political parties must adhere to the established guidelines and conduct their campaigns peacefully. Civil society organizations must always play a crucial role in voter education and promoting fair play in the electoral process. The media must continue to serves as the watchdog, ensuring transparency and accountability,” he said.
